THE PSNI has launched an internal inquiry after dozens of officers did not report for duty in Derry City and Strabane policing district over a two-week period last month.
They were told they could be on stand-by from home, BBC News NI reports.
But after it was discovered, the practice was brought to “an immediate end” and an investigation was launched into the officers’ conduct.
The police accept the practice meant it had fewer officers on duty to enforce lockdown regulations.
It is reported that on one shift as many as 28 officers did not show up.
However, the practice is thought to have involved many others between April 13 and April 28.
It is believed the officers were told by inspectors they could be at home, without the knowledge of more senior commanders.
About 200 officers in total are attached to the Police DDerry City and Strabane Command Unit.
The area’s recently appointed district commander, Chief Supt Emma Bond, said: “The practice is not one that had been endorsed by the senior management of the police and now has been brought to an immediate end.
The PSNI’s commander for Derry City and Strabane Chief Supt Emma Bond
“An examination of the circumstances that led to the officers being detailed to stay at home has commenced to establish how this happened and establish if any officers have done anything wrong.”
Chief Constable Simon Byrne made the Policing Board aware of developments during a private session last week and it is now awaiting the outcome of the investigation.
The inquiry has been launched by the PSNI’s Professional Standards Department.
As well as facing potential disciplinary action, officers could have to re-pay wages or take the days they missed as annual leave.
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